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Pope Benedict XVI will fly off into history when he leaves the Vatican by
helicopter this afternoon after becoming the first pope in six centuries to
resign.

The 85-year-old used his final General Audience in St Peter’s Square yesterday
to deny claims that he was “climbing down from the Cross” by leaving before
he dies. He told a crowd of 150,000 that he did not plan a conventional
retirement when he becomes Pope Emeritus.

“I am not returning to private life, to a life of travel, meetings,
receptions, conferences, etcetera,” he said. “I am not abandoning the Cross,
but will

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The Pope’s final address

February 28 2013

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The Pope waves from the altar as he arrives in St Peter's Square

February 28 2013 AFP/Getty Images

The Pope waves from the altar as he arrives in St Peter's Square

February 28 2013 AFP/Getty Images

Blessing a baby as he rides through the crowds

February 28 2013 Reuters

A nun looks on from a window as the Pope addresses the crowds

February 28 2013 AFP/Getty Images

The Pope spoke of "stormy waters and headwinds” during his reign

February 28 2013 AFP/Getty Images

Pope Benedict XVI walks to the altar as he arrives at St Peter’s Square